Are You a Fan or a Disciple?

This past week I had a bit of a lesson in what it means to be a “fan” of certain musicians.  For example, did you know that fans of Barry Manilow are called “Fanilows”, fans of Justine Bieber are called “Beliebers”, Lady Gaga’s fans are dubbed “Little Monsters”, Clay Aiken’s fans are “Claymates”, Neil Diamond’s fans are “Diamond Heads”, and the once-famous 1970s rock group Aerosmith calls their fans “The Blue Army”?  The list goes on and on with some fans having inspiring names and others not so inspiring!

This was all news to me as I have never really been a “fan” or follower of any specific musician or group. I am however a follower of one whom, as Rev. James Harnish writes, “doesn’t attract fans; he calls disciples.”

He calls disciples to something deeper, profound and more life-changing than any mere “fan” would aspire.   He calls us to humbly serve the other, “ I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me into your home. I needed clothes, and you gave me something to wear. I was sick, and you took care of me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ …..Whatever you did for one of my brothers or sisters, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did for me.’(Matthew 25:34-40)

Jesus doesn’t look for “Fans” who compete for attention and status but instead, he calls us to into co-creating a kin-dom of love, peace, joy, welcome, acceptance and grace.

So?  Are you merely a fan seeking attention and admiration or are you a Disciple prayerfully serving Jesus by humbly serving others?  As Lent approaches this is a good question to ponder.

Blessings,

Rev. Heather McCarrel

The photo with today’s Blog was taken by Sebastian Ervi.

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